the journal

If you’re planning a wedding across time zones, first—take a deep breath. Whether your heart is set on a destination wedding or you and your fiancé live in different states (or countries!), it’s absolutely possible to plan something beautiful without the chaos.As a luxury wedding planner, I’ve worked with couples coordinating from opposite sides of […]

There’s a moment at every wedding—right before the ceremony begins—when everything goes still.A hush falls over the space. A deep breath is taken. A glance is exchanged that says “this is it.”It’s in that quiet moment that the reason why you hire a wedding planner becomes clear. Not Just a Timeline—A Touchstone Anyone can build […]

Welcome to Shuman Koutory Event and Design. I’m Ashli Shuman — mom of four, wife, and your personal guide on this incredible journey. From Early Dreams to Real Life Before I ever dreamed of crafting unforgettable weddings, I watched wedding shows by mentors like David Tutera and Cowie. I imagined myself not just as a […]

When you’re planning a multicultural wedding, you’re not just choosing a venue or a color palette—you’re curating a meaningful experience that tells a deeper story. One that speaks to who you are, where you come from, and where you’re going—together. Whether you’re blending two cultures or highlighting a single heritage, there’s something powerful about honoring […]

Getting married soon? Let’s talk Mexico.You’ve found your person, you’re dreaming of dreamy views and palm trees, and Mexico is calling your name louder than tequila on a Tuesday. But wait—how do you actually get married there and make it legal back home? As your go-to wedding bestie (with a clipboard and a killer dress), […]

The Must-Know Wedding Terms Guide: Speak the Language of Weddings with Confidence Planning a wedding is an exciting whirlwind! One moment, you’re dreaming of the perfect dress, and the next, you’re surrounded by unfamiliar lingo—boutonnieres, bustles, and mood boards galore. The wedding industry has its own language, and understanding it can make all the difference […]

Let’s Set the Scene The moment your partner has been dreaming about—the one they’ll replay a thousand times in their head—needs to be flawless.The perfect location, the right ambiance, a little magic in the air. And lucky for you, Atlanta is a city that knows how to set the mood. Whether you’re dreaming of a […]

Hey There, Wedding Bestie! So, you’re ready to pop the big question in the city that never sleeps—how exciting is that? Planning a proposal in New York City is like stepping into a love story waiting to be written. From iconic landmarks to secret little corners of romance, NYC is practically begging to be your […]

What Does a Wedding Planner Do? The Shuman Koutory Experience—Full Planning and Coordination Explained Planning a wedding can be an overwhelming task. But imagine having an expert by your side, someone who understands your vision and can transform it into reality with ease. This is where a wedding planner, like the team at Shuman Koutory […]

Stay Ahead of the Curve with Timeless and Trend-Setting Wedding Designs Introduction In the ever-evolving world of luxury weddings, staying ahead of the trends is crucial. At Shuman Koutory, we’re not just following the latest styles—we’re setting them. From Georgia to NYC, our team is committed to helping couples bring their dream weddings to life […]